What Plants are Best Suited for the Florida Heat?

When it comes to landscaping in the Sunshine State, it's important to choose plants that can withstand the heat and humidity of Florida's climate. From butterfly gardens to cottage gardens, there are plenty of sun- and heat-tolerant plants that can thrive in the Florida heat. Lantana is an excellent choice for butterfly gardens. Native to Mexico, these late-flowering annuals are resistant to wilting in the heat.

This climbing and creeping shrub is ideal for growing on a wall or gazebo or for planting as a specimen plant or for mass planting. Florida native plants are already well adapted to climate and soil conditions, so they generally have the ability to thrive without additional irrigation or fertilization. The best plants that tolerate full sun exposure in Florida are suitable for growing in USDA zones 9 through 11. Zinnia flowers are popular low-maintenance plants in Florida gardens because of their large, colorful flowers with pom-poms. The American Beautyberry plant is known for its striking purple berries that grow in clusters on its branches.

Often referred to as African fire shrub or dwarf fire shrub, conservationists recommend that you avoid planting this variety in your Florida garden, as it can hybridize with the native shrub. These trees are native to all of Florida, but are best suited to the southern parts of the state. Zinnias are sun-loving annuals in colder areas, but they grow as perennials in Florida and produce beautiful colorful flowers. You can grow the yellow-flowered plants in cottage gardens, mixed borders, or along a baseline where they get at least six hours of sun a day. Gerberas produce large, eye-catching flowers and are ideal for adding a touch of color to any Florida garden. To ensure you're selecting the right plants for your garden, it's important to check if a plant is considered invasive in your area or a threat to native species.

You can do this by visiting the National Invasive Species Information Center or talking to the regional extension office or local garden center.